What is the likely effect of a heavy and low-repetition strength training program using free weights? (A) Muscle atrophy (B) Muscle hypertrophy (C) Increased muscular endurance (D) Increased slow-twitch muscle fibre concentration - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 4 - 2016 - Paper 1

Muscle hypertrophy is the increase in the size of muscle fibers, and it is a common result of resistance training, particularly with heavy weights and low repetitions. This type of training effectively stimulates muscle growth through mechanical overload.

While muscular endurance can be improved through strength training, heavy and low-repetition programs primarily focus on building strength and size rather than endurance. Higher repetitions with lighter weights are typically more effective for endurance gains.

A heavy and low-repetition strength training program primarily targets fast-twitch muscle fibers, which are responsible for powerful, explosive movements. Increased concentration of slow-twitch fibers is more closely associated with endurance training.